The post pandemic days were tough, but the vibe is returning to normal as Alicante pushes exports higher than ever. In 2022, the province sold abroad more than 7.068 billion euros, rising 13.69 percent and leading the ranking. Metals, plastics, and the footwear sector show strong momentum, while agri-food products reinforce Alicante’s growing weight in foreign trade. Imports also hit a record, reaching 5.954 billion euros, thanks largely to the easing of trade with China.
Exports from the province quickly surpassed 7,000 million for the first time in an annual measurement. This happens amid international uncertainties from the war in Ukraine, rising costs, and inflation that threaten market momentum. The Alicante Provincial Directorate of Foreign Trade reported figures for the previous year, showing a historic lift and a resilient recovery in spite of global headwinds.
The footwear industry sits at the core of this ascent. It endured harsh pandemic restrictions that paused social life but closed 2022 with a 17.9 percent gain in international sales, totaling 1.320 billion units. That figure is more than 2019, before the health crisis began.
Other sectors are showing notable growth as well. Aluminum rose 24.4 percent to 391 million units, while machinery and mechanical devices climbed 18 percent to 196 million. Electronic devices and materials grew 10.8 percent to 193 million. Plastic exports surged 15.8 percent, lifting total plastics exports to 442 million.
agriculture-food
The agriculture and food sector also confirms its weight in provincial foreign trade. Legumes and vegetables reached 484 million with a 6.5 percent rise, while canned vegetables and fruits grew 14.4 percent to 293 million.
On the downside, automotive sector exports fell by 50.9 percent to 183 million due to last year’s supply chain crunch and weaker demand in the industry.
In summary, the overall balance remains positive, with several factors supporting the uptick. Improvements in consumption after the worst pandemic moments helped, but others weigh in too. Marián Cano, president of the Valencian Footwear Entrepreneurs Association, notes that supply chains have resumed normal operation and many processes have shifted, boosting figures. He cautions that inflation could still affect consumption if it persists over time.
Luis Rodríguez, president of the Alicante State Metal Entrepreneurs Federation, points to efforts by some firms to modernize production and to the euro-dollar parity benefiting exports. He says overseas sales are rising, margins are tightening to stay competitive, and the trend appears sustainable for now.
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La Foia de Castalla stands out as the province’s main plastics production center. Héctor Torrente, head of the Ibiae regional employers’ association, notes the sector’s exports are up due to product quality and reliable service. International recognition grows as demand strengthens.
Imports rose 22.24 percent, with China leading the way at a 22.8 percent increase and sales reaching 1.588 billion. The easing of restrictions in Asia and the need to secure raw materials contributed to this rise.
Spain posted a 2022 export record of 389.0 billion, up 23 percent, while the Valencia Community reached 39.6 billion, up 22.2 percent, underscoring the region’s export momentum.